Among the Best Facilities in the Mid-American Intercollegiate Athletics Association

Originally opened in 1928 as the contest space for men’s basketball, Whiting Field House was transformed in 2008 by a $3.7 million update. The primary focus of the renovation was creation of a state-of-the art weight room for student athletes. It is among the best facilities in the Mid-American Intercollegiate Athletics Association conference. The renovation also included offices for Nursing faculty, classrooms, a simulation lab and equipment for nursing students. Trivia: From its opening until 1983, Whiting Field House was home court for Washburn basketball. In 1969 volleyball began at Washburn. Much of the home court advantage was thanks to a giant blue wall made of tin that covered a stage. Opponents are said to have found the wall intimidating.

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What's an Ichabod?

Washburn's mascot, the Ichabod, honors the school's early benefactor, Ichabod Washburn, a 19th century Massachusetts industrialist. The original design of the studious-looking, tuxedo-clad figure was created in 1938 by Bradbury Thompson (ba '34), who became an internationally acclaimed graphic artist. Design wasn't Thompson's only consideration. To the stylized Ichabod the artist attributed the qualities of "...courage and enthusiasm, as shown by his brisk walk. He is democratic and courteous, for he tips his hat as he passes. Sincere in his search for truth and knowledge, he studiously carries a book under his arm..."